Tell us a few things about your early life or childhood. Who was your role model as a child?
My maternal grandmother was my hero.
I met Christine my childhood role model when I was three (she was an adult). She continues to teach me. I have always thought of her as my friend. She is and always has been a great supporter of my writing.
Which of your childhood dreams was the first to die?
I wanted to be a lawyer but when I found out how much work it would take, I realised I wasn’t really up to the job.
What are some ways you tried to improve your writing throughout your high school years?
I’m not sure I made concerted efforts to improve but I did write a lot.
How did your friends and family react to your first book?
My dad was very proud of me and one of my friends got me to do my first book signing.
Which is your favorite American TV show?
Greys Anatomy
How long did it take you to write the book, My Father's Daughter?
I don’t write books. I write poems and compile them into books. My Father’s Daughter has back catalogue poetry in it so between two and twenty years depending on when you would consider it began – the first poem that I used or the moment I decided to collect some of my poetry and shape it into book form. I never expected to write a book. After lots of conversations and a lot of thinking it made sense to publish one. I kept writing throughout. The contents changed a lot and few of my original choices survived to final draft stage as I had developed as a poet over the time it took to compile it.
What are some habits that are crucial to developing if you want to become a successful writer?
Reading, writing, honing your craft, marketing skills and a thick skin.
Which of the many poetries that you have written is the closest to your heart? Why?
‘There’s a very pleasant feeling’ was written about a visit to St John’s Chapel in 1982. My Nana (maternal grandmother) was dying of cancer at the time. Spending that time there with her (and other people including my parents) was special to me.
What is "A taste of what's to come" about and how did you come up with the idea for this book?
It was supposed to be a free sample to introduce people to my poetry so it’s a bit of everything. A friend came up with the title.
How do you maintain that equilibrium between writing what you want and what your readers want?
Luckily, we seem to agree mostly as far as I can tell. I have great people who read my work before its published and are honest with me.
What is the best writing tip you ever received and who gave it to you?
My favourite is ‘no wasted words’. It’s from a friend and long-time reader of my work. (My childhood role model).
How has becoming an author affected your day-to-day life?
I have made some wonderful friends. I’m a carer so it’s good to have something of my own to focus on that connects me with people. It gives me a sense of purpose outside my caring role, which helps a lot.
When is the next book coming out?
As soon as possible. I have another picture book on the way.
Most writers have some other thing they're passionate about, what's yours?
Music – anyone who follows me on Facebook or Twitter will know that. I share music every day.
Learning – I call myself the eternal student.
The Twitteratti know my passion for words and books too.
How has been your experience to work with AllAuthor? What are some of the things you like about the site?
I enjoy the cover comp and making graphics. I‘ve yet to explore some of the newer features.
